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How to Apply for eVisa to United Kingdom

Your complete guide to the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation process

What is the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a pre-travel permission system introduced by the United Kingdom government. It links permission to travel to your passport and is required for nationals of certain countries who do not need a visa to visit the UK.

The ETA allows multiple trips to the UK and is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first). Each stay can be up to 6 months.

Key ETA Facts
  • Valid for 2 years
  • Multiple entry permitted
  • Stay up to 6 months per visit
  • Linked to your passport
  • Apply online anytime
  • Usually decided quickly
Quick Summary
  • Type: Electronic Travel Authorisation
  • Processing: Usually within hours
  • Fee: £16 (£20 from 8 April 2026)
  • Validity: 2 years
  • Stay: Up to 6 months per visit

Who Needs a UK ETA?

The following nationalities currently require an ETA to visit the UK (this list may change — always check the official UK government website):

RegionExamples of CountriesETA Required
North AmericaUSA, Canada, Mexico Yes
Europe (non-EU)Switzerland, Norway, Iceland Yes
Asia PacificAustralia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea Yes
Middle EastUAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain Yes
EU Countries (incl. Poland)France, Germany, Spain, Poland, etc. Yes
Other countriesMany African, Asian, South American nationsVisa required

Step-by-Step Application Guide

1

Check Eligibility

Verify if your nationality requires a UK ETA or visa. Check the official UK government website for the most up-to-date information.

2

Gather Documents

Prepare your valid passport, email address, payment method (credit/debit card), and a recent photo if required.

3

Complete Application

Fill in the online application form with your personal details, passport information, and travel plans. Review carefully before submitting.

4

Receive Approval

Most ETAs are approved quickly. You'll receive your ETA by email. The ETA is digitally linked to your passport — no physical document needed.

Required Documents

For UK ETA Application

  • Valid passport (must not expire before your intended return)
  • Valid email address
  • Credit or debit card for the £16 fee (£20 from 8 April 2026)
  • Details of your travel plans (optional but helpful)

For Entry to UK

  • Valid passport with ETA linked
  • Return or onward ticket
  • Proof of accommodation booking
  • Proof of sufficient funds
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)

Costs & Processing Times

Application TypeFeeProcessing TimeValidity
UK ETA (standard)£16 (£20 from 8 April 2026)Usually within a few hours2 years
UK Standard Visitor Visa£115Up to 3 weeksUp to 6 months
UK Long-term Visit Visa£400+Up to 3 weeks2, 5, or 10 years

Frequently Asked Questions

While ETAs are often approved quickly, we recommend applying at least 3-5 days before travel to allow time for any issues. You can apply up to 6 months before your trip.

ETAs allow stays of up to 6 months. Extensions for tourism are generally not granted. If you need a longer stay, you must apply for the appropriate visa.

If refused, you'll receive a refusal notice explaining the reason. In some cases, you may be able to apply for a standard visitor visa instead. There is no formal appeal process for ETA refusals.

Yes, all travellers including children need their own ETA (if required for their nationality). Each person travelling on their own passport needs their own ETA.

No. An ETA is a pre-travel authorisation for short visits. A visa is required for longer stays, study, or work purposes. ETAs are for nationals who do not require a visa but still need pre-travel clearance.

No. The UK ETA only permits tourism, visiting family/friends, and short business trips. You cannot work, study for extended periods, or live in the UK on an ETA.

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Disclaimer: This website is operated by a private service provider and is not an official government website. We are not associated with any governmental agency. All visa applications submitted through this platform are transmitted to the appropriate government immigration authority. This service charges a handling fee for application assistance.